For sale here is a rather interesting rod from Pioneer Rods. A 6'6" 4-5wt 2/2 bamboo fly rod. The rod is in excellent+ original condition. All section are full length and straight. One tip has a slight fishing set. Paul Hightower, who was the chief machinist at Phillipson started Pioneer after the demise of Phillipson. The Pioneer rods were often made with an assortment of components from Phillipson and W&M Granger. This rod appears to be primarily of Phillipson pedigree. Pioneer made great rods to fish with and focused less on aesthetics. Nonetheless, this rod is quite attractive. Dark colored cane, the blank has a more rounded profile, which adds in strength and improved action. Chestnut brown silks with cinnamon tipping. Cinnamon and red at the winding check, hook keeper, ferrules and tip-tops. Bright hardware. The hook keeper is placed rather high, 2" up from the grip. The only script on the rod is, "Pioneer" and "Line 4.5". Thread winding check over the nose of the grip, much like later Phillipson rods. Western-style grip is only slightly soiled and in wonderful condition. Aluminum down-locking reel seat with a richly banded, varnished wood spacer. The Phillipson ferrules are size 11/64, the fit is excellent. The rod weighs 3.40 oz. The action is on the faster side of medium-fast, and crisp. In my hand it feels more of a 4wt. It would make for an excellent back country cutthroat rod casting to pocket water and through willow tunnels. Includes handsome plaid bag and aluminum tube. Don't miss out on this unique Colorado rod!